Campaigns
If you hear or see inappropriate comments or behaviour, speak up. You can do this both privately and publicly.
1. Try to be specific about what behaviour was problematic.
“You are invading people’s personal space by standing too close/hugging too long.”
“that joke about XXX”
“when you said XXX”
“I saw you touch XXX inappropriately.”
2. Explain the impact of this behaviour
“it makes people feel uncomfortable around you.”
3. If the person continues you can let them know that you might need to report what you are observing.
“Mate, when you said that thing to XXX about their body earlier, that was a bit off. It might make people uncomfortable so don’t do that again.”
“I noticed you use the word XXX and I don’t know if you know but folk don’t really use that word anymore. It could be offensive to some people in the room.”
“You have been asked more than once not do XXX, if it continues, I will report it.”
Don’t be afraid to pre-empt potential scenarios in advance:
“I’ve noticed that there is a lot of physical contact coming up in the scenes we are working on next – can we speak about where everyone’s boundaries are in relation to this?”
Check in with the target regularly.
Ask if you can do anything to support them.
Signpost them to advice, information and support.
Research and share options with them.
Ask to see the company policy on sexual harassment or bullying and harassment. You might find these in the company handbook, you may need to ask a line manager, the producer or stage manager for a copy. If the organisation runs a Guardian scheme you can approach them.
Contact external organisations and sources including:
Help the target to make an informal or formal complaint if they wish to do so.
Offer to be a witness to any behaviour you have seen.
Seek consent from the target before escalating on their behalf.